Jinja: The arrest of Buwekula Parish Councillor, Michael Kimera, and Buwekula Village Chairperson, Jamawa Kwegemya, by Jinja police has sent shockwaves through the community. The duo is alleged to have been involved in the fraudulent sale of David Lukwagana’s land, falsely marketing it as their own and selling it to unsuspecting buyers.
The incident came to light after the Jinja Northern Division Deputy Resident City Commissioner, Ms. Lydia Kalemela, confirmed their detention at Mafubira Police Post. It is reported that the suspects used their positions to forge land titles, claiming ownership of Lukwagana’s property, and then sold it off as separate plots to fifteen individuals.
In response to notices of eviction served to the land occupants, Ms. Kalemela took swift action and urged Lukwagana’s legal team to be patient while investigations continue. She stressed the need for leaders to refrain from abusing their positions for personal gain and engaging in unlawful practices of land grabbing and property theft.
Lukwagana’s lawyer, Cyprian Dhikusooka, stood firm in asserting his client’s rightful ownership of the land, backed by all necessary documents, including the legitimate land title. He insisted that the suspects should be held accountable for the scam and demanded the return of the estimated 70 million shillings the land was valued at.
“We are currently respecting the RCC’s plea that we should not evict the victims. Her efforts are to ensure an amicable mediation, but if that fails, we shall definitely take legal action,” said Dhikusooka.
With preparations underway to file a petition against Kimera and Kwegemya, Lukwagana’s legal team is seeking justice for the forgeries committed and plans to pursue charges of forgery, trespass, obtaining money by false pretense, and other related offenses. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding property rights and ensuring accountability among public officials.
